Overview
The St. Ann’s Loop Tour is a scenic two-hour journey that captures the peaceful essence of Cape Breton’s countryside and coastline. Following the lower portion of the Cabot Trail, this short but rewarding excursion combines breathtaking water views, cultural heritage, and the charm of local craft communities nestled around St. Ann’s Bay.
Perfect for visitors with limited time, the loop offers a taste of Cape Breton’s Gaelic traditions, coastal landscapes, and artisan creativity — all within a relaxing drive that begins and ends in Sydney.
Main Attractions
St. Ann’s Bay
The centrepiece of the tour, St. Ann’s Bay is one of the island’s most tranquil and picturesque regions. Its calm blue waters are surrounded by rolling highlands and forested hills, making it a favourite subject for photographers and painters.
The bay is named after Saint Anne, revered by both Mi’kmaq and Catholic communities, and was one of the first areas on Cape Breton settled by Europeans in the early 1600s.
Travellers can admire small fishing coves and private cottages along the shoreline, each reflecting Cape Breton’s peaceful maritime lifestyle. In summer, the bay teems with sailboats and kayaks, while eagles soar above the calm water.
Gaelic College – Colaisde na Gàidhlig
At the head of St. Ann’s Bay stands the Gaelic College, founded in 1938 to preserve the island’s Gaelic language, music, and cultural traditions. The college remains a vital symbol of Cape Breton’s Scottish heritage.
Visitors can explore exhibits on Highland life, clan history, and traditional craftsmanship such as tartan weaving and kilt-making. The sound of bagpipes and fiddles often fills the air, with live demonstrations of step dancing and music sessions offered during summer months.
The Great Hall of the Clans displays hundreds of crests, tartans, and genealogical records — a favourite stop for visitors tracing their ancestry.
The campus sits high above the bay, providing panoramic views that blend cultural pride with natural splendour.
Englishtown Ferry
A short drive from the college brings travellers to the Englishtown Ferry, one of Nova Scotia’s most charming and historic crossings. The ferry connects the two sides of St. Ann’s Bay, operating year-round on a brief five-minute passage that offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and water.
This crossing is more than transportation — it’s a traditional experience, part of local life for generations. On clear days, the calm blue waters reflect the sky, creating postcard-perfect photo opportunities.
Additional Highlights / Scenic Stops
Wreck Cove & Indian Brook
Continuing along the loop, the route passes through Wreck Cove and Indian Brook, two peaceful coastal hamlets that embody Cape Breton’s rugged beauty.
Wreck Cove gets its name from the numerous ships that met their fate along this wild stretch of Atlantic coast in the 1800s. Today, it’s a peaceful area with a few cottages and fishing sheds dotting the shoreline.
Nearby Indian Brook is home to small artist studios and craft houses where visitors can purchase handwoven textiles, pottery, and jewellery inspired by the landscape. The village’s cliffs and coves offer sweeping views of St. Ann’s Bay and the surrounding highlands.
Cape Smokey Lookout
A favourite stop along the route, the Cape Smokey Lookout provides one of the most stunning panoramic views in Nova Scotia. From the viewpoint, travellers can see the coastline curve dramatically into the distance, with waves breaking below against rugged cliffs.
On clear days, you can even spot Ingonish and the northern peaks of the Cape Breton Highlands. The lookout is a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Artisan Trail Studios
The St. Ann’s region is known for its Artisan Trail, a network of local studios and galleries that celebrate Cape Breton craftsmanship. Stops include glassblowers, weavers, painters, and sculptors, many of whom welcome visitors into their workshops.
Each artist reflects the natural beauty of the island in their work — from ocean-inspired pottery glazes to hand-carved wood that mirrors the island’s forests. It’s a wonderful way to experience the creativity and warmth of Cape Bretoners firsthand.
Tour Experience
The St. Ann’s Loop Tour is a peaceful escape designed for those who want to experience Cape Breton’s natural and cultural heritage without a long drive. Travellers enjoy a scenic loop beginning in Sydney, passing through forested valleys and coastal villages before circling the bay and returning via Route 105.
Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles provide the perfect setting for guests to sit back and take in the sights, while knowledgeable local guides share stories about Gaelic settlers, shipwreck lore, and the artistic rebirth of the region.
Photo stops include St. Ann’s Bay viewpoints, the Englishtown Ferry, and Cape Smokey Lookout. The leisurely pace allows time for browsing craft shops, enjoying coffee with a view, or simply breathing in the salty air.
It’s a short journey that captures the best of Cape Breton — history, art, and nature in perfect harmony.
Duration & Availability
- Duration: 2 hours (round trip from Sydney)
- Availability: Year-round (best from May to October for full scenic access)
- Best For: Cruise guests, art lovers, and travellers seeking a light, scenic adventure.
- Pick-Up/Drop-Off: Sydney Cruise Terminal or local accommodations.
- Includes: Transportation, guided commentary, and scenic/photo stops.
- Accessibility: Easy to moderate; minimal walking required at most stops.
